Embrace Iowa helps Iowans who are struggling to meet their most basic needs.
For more than 40 years, generous Des Moines Register readers and the Embrace Iowa charitable program have been providing support, expert knowledge and grants to Iowans who could use a respite from their financial hardships.
Over the same four decades, self-employed contractor Rick Suntken had never heard of the program, nor expected to be the type of person to approach them for help. “But these last of couple years have just been absolutely the worst that I’ve worked through my life in business,” he said.
The owner and operator of Suntken Siding & Windows in Boone County was battling mounting utility bills while the work opportunities dried up. “I mean, I feel bad to have to ask about it,” Suntken said.
Funded by the contributions of Des Moines Register readers, Embrace Iowa distributes grants valued up to $750 to individuals and families hoping for immediate relief. Applications are accepted from anywhere within Iowa’s 99 counties, and are managed by teams at 16 regional, nonprofit Community Action Agencies.
The steady flow of donations can quickly add up to create a substantial resource. This year’s fundraising drive is set to expire at the end of January and is on target to provide temporary comfort to a record number of people in need.
Applicants are required to show a gross annual income of 200% or less than the federal poverty guidelines and show proof of residency. But once approved, the money can be used for a diverse range of issues including back rent, medical bills, vehicle repair, and purchasing furniture, or clothing for young children.
Suntken reached out to the Impact Community Action Partnership, whose offices administer funds for Polk, Boone, Warren, Japer, and Marion counties. Although an applicant can request up to $750, each dollar in the yearly campaign is carefully managed, and every cent can make a difference. In Suntken’s case, Impact was able to discuss the debt with the Xenia Rural Water District company and agree on a payment plan.
More: Embrace Iowa helped this single mother in Story County get bedding for her children
In an ongoing effort to make full use of all the money raised, none of the revenue donated by Register readers is diverted to pay for Embrace Iowa’s staff or cover any administration costs. And each grant is paid directly to the creditors, and not to the applicant.
“I’ve never worked for anybody else in 45 years” Suntken added and is looking forward to a quick turnaround for his business in the year ahead. He remains grateful to the Embrace Iowa staff who assisted him with the paperwork and application and encourages others in similar circumstances to consider the program. “It was a good experience. And easy to do,” he said.
More: Embrace Iowa helps Fayette County family pay for new bedding, utility bills
How you can help
The current campaign is welcoming donations until Jan. 31, with all funds carefully budgeted and assigned to benefit as many Iowans as possible.
Donors can be pay online by credit card, or by direct transfer from their bank by following step-by-step, instructions posted at iowacommunityaction.org/donate-embrace-iowa for a secure and safe transaction. And readers who prefer to donate by check can mail them to Embrace Iowa, P.O. Box 10611, Cedar Rapids, IA 52410-0611.
Richard Lane is a freelance writer based in Des Moines.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Embrace Iowa charity helps Boone man pay off his utility bills
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